Why Fraser Island should be your next holiday destination

The world's largest sand island has plenty to offer, from stunning rainforests to breathtaking wildlife

Fraser Island needs little introduction. With the recent visit by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex placing the island firmly in the spotlight, now is the time to discover all of the one-of-a-kind experiences that make this such an iconic and must-see destination.

What makes Fraser Island unique?

Not only is Fraser Island the largest sand island in the world, stretching over 123 kilometres, it also has a captivating terrain waiting to be discovered, with tall rainforests growing on sand, ancient dune systems and coloured sand cliffs still evolving. Visitors can experience this natural beauty for themselves from a number of panoramic viewpoints, including Indian Head and the Cathedrals. The Champagne Pools are another of the unique natural attractions on Fraser Island that are a must-see for travellers. The naturally formed rock pools create a collection of shallow, sandy swimming holes right on the edge of the ocean. With each wave that crashes in, the pools are renewed with water, creating a Jacuzzi-like feeling as the foam fizzes around.

Lake McKenzie, Fraser Island, Queensland

The traditional homeland of the Butchulla people for more than 5,000 years, Fraser Island is also steeped in culture. They named the island K’gari – which, literally translated, means paradise – after the legendary spirit princess they believed helped to create the island. The Butchulla people’s heritage is prevalent across the island in archaeological sites, middens, ceremonial bora rings and stone implements.

Today, the island is a world-class tourist attraction that’s often hailed as one of the most beautiful places on the planet. Thanks to its World Heritage status, K’gari will remain a paradise forever.

Discover the wildlife

Whale watching, Fraser Coast, Queensland

For wildlife enthusiasts, Fraser Island has an abundance of mammals and reptiles, including wallabies, possums, sugar gliders, turtles and 354 recorded species of native birds. Home to the purest strain of dingoes remaining in eastern Australia, these protected animals are also a firm feature and roam freely on the beach.

In the inviting surrounding ocean, you might spot dolphins, dugongs and rays, plus Fraser Island is one of the best places to get up close to baby humpback whales and their mothers during July to October. More than 7,000 whales holiday in the waters of the Fraser Coast on their 5,000km migration from Antarctica to teach their baby calves skills such as breaching, spyhopping, tummy flashes and plenty of other survival tools.

How do I get there?

Fraser Island is located in southern Queensland about 270km north of Brisbane, with the drive taking just over three hours to Hervey Bay. Fraser Coast’s Hervey Bay Airport has direct flights from Brisbane and Sydney. The island is easily accessed by ferry from Hervey Bay or Inskip Point, with touring options from Rainbow Beach, Noosa and Hervey Bay running every day. Or you can enjoy a scenic flight landing directly on the sand.

Discover more about Queensland here. To explore Fraser Island, contact one of Flight Centre's Australian Travel Experts on 0808 278 5293 for some great holiday offers and the kind of personal service that has garnered a five-star Trustpilot rating, based on more than 14,500 customer reviews. You can also visit flightcentre.co.uk/queensland for more holiday inspiration